Irish Water Spaniel vs Swedish Lapphund
Breed Compatibility
96% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Swedish Lapphund: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Swedish Lapphund: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Swedish Lapphund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Swedish Lapphund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Swedish Lapphund3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Swedish Lapphund4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Irish Water Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Follicular Dysplasia: Coat abnormalities
Swedish Lapphund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Cataracts: Lens opacity development
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease risk
Pros & Cons Comparison
Irish Water Spaniel
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Intelligent and trainable
Low-shedding coat
Devoted family companion
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Prone to ear infections
Swedish Lapphund
Pros
Excellent cold weather tolerance
Strong herding instincts
Loyal family companion
Good with children
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong prey drive
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Swedish Lapphund Fun Fact
Swedish Lapphunds can effectively herd reindeer by using their distinctive barking pattern to control the herd.
Heritage & Purpose
Irish Water Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1830s for retrieving waterfowl from cold waters and rough terrain. Prized for their water-resistant coat and exceptional swimming abilities.
Swedish Lapphund
Origin:
Developed in Lapland during the 17th century, these dogs served as reindeer herders and watchdogs for the Sami people in northern Scandinavia.
Special Considerations
Irish Water Spaniel
Regular coat maintenance required. Needs access to swimming opportunities. Ears must be checked frequently due to water exposure and long ear canals.
Swedish Lapphund
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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